Meet the Board

Alex serves on several boards in the Kansas City area. His focus is on the intersection of poverty and opportunity for the youth of Kansas, Missouri, and the Midwest.

Once a professional jazz musician, Alex now spends his free time coaching and playing soccer, reading, and spending time in nature.

Paul is the senior advisor and co-founder of the Bridgespan Group, which does global consulting for philanthropies and non-profits. He is a frequent writer and speaker on social innovation and other nonprofit issues and has delivered keynote addresses all over the world. Paul graduated with the highest distinction from the University of Kansas and received his MBA from Stanford University.

Steve Karlin retired in June of 2022 after a 34-year career in public education where he served positions ranging from  teacher to  superintendent. Currently he works part-time as a Field Leadership Consultant for the Kansas Association of School Boards. He holds a bachelor of science from the University of Wyoming and a master and doctorate of Education from Kansas State University.

With a background in education, civic engagement, and community development, Miles Sandler has worked with organizations like National League of Cities and the Boys and Girls Club of Newburgh to expand equitable opportunities for youth and families. She is a proud alumna of the National Urban Fellows, Surge Institute, and Executive Ascent, and actively supports efforts to advance equity in Kansas City.

With more than 25 years of experience in social impact leadership, Gary Chapman has helped organizations across education, justice, human services, and healthcare strengthen strategy, equity, and results. Known for his collaborative and results-driven approach, he has secured millions in funding to expand opportunities for vulnerable students and communities nationwide.

Cindy has served as Director of IT & Operations, Director of Retail Rates, Director of Internal Audit, Director of Compliance, and spent a number of years performing accounting in private industry. Cindy resides in Topeka with her husband Travis, and their twin daughters, Brittney and Brianna. In her spare time, she enjoys swimming, running, and hiking with her family.

Dion has worked in the Financial Services Industry for over 20 years, holding positions such as bank teller, credit analyst, and internal auditor. He is also an active member of the Knights of Columbus which serves the community in various forms of fundraising and small events. Dion lives in Topeka with his wife and three daughters, of which are involved in competitive dance and occupy most of their time outside of work and volunteering.

With experience spanning education, technology, and social impact, Mel Ochoa has held leadership roles at organizations including Achievement First and BridgePath. He also serves on several nonprofit boards focused on advancing equity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Mel holds a bachelor’s degree with majors in History and Rhetoric from the University of California, Berkeley, and an MBA from the Stern School of Business at New York University.

Jim brings over a decade of strategy consulting experience to his work in education and workforce development. He has advised philanthropic foundations, nonprofits, EdTech companies, and government clients while developing expertise in education, economic development, and private equity. Jim spends time playing tennis, rock climbing, and walking the neighborhood with his wife Ericka and  miniature poodle, Abe.

Stan Rasmussen is a retired attorney with a 40-year career in environmental and energy law, including work with the U.S. Army, Department of Defense, and private industry. He is actively engaged in his community through local boards, youth coaching, and civic leadership. Stan is married with two grown daughters and two granddaughters. He enjoys traveling with his wife, fly fishing in the Rocky Mountains, and going on adventures with friends.